The Final Act of Kindness

When death comes, either naturally or accidentally to a pet we have loved and cared for, it is a very traumatic experience. It is also natural to want to ensure that these members of the family are treated with compassion, dignity and respect.
If you choose to have your deceased pet cremated, do a little homework. Check the internet and with other pet owners, family or friends. Speak to the crematory company directly - do not just rely on the veterinarian. It is your pet, and it ...

My pet has cancer. Now what?

First of all, remember that if your cat or dog is diagnosed with cancer, you should not let hope be the first casualty of the disease. Many different types of cancers are found in dogs and cats (and other animals, as well), just as they are in humans. If you would consider treatment for your pet for diseases of the heart, kidneys, liver, or hormones, then you should consider it for cancer.
How to Watch Out for Cancer
You know your pet ...

Cremation-A new burial concept for cremated pets

On 23 Oct 2007, we officially opened the EcoEternity Forest at Camp Highroad, a new type of Green Cemetery for the cremated remains of humans. As we started to communicate the new idea to customers and funeral homes, we received positive feedback and many questions. Every other customer asked, “My pet is part of my family, can it go under my tree too?” People were surprised to learn cremated pets could be interred with their family under a dedicated EcoEternity ...

Coping with the Loss of Your Pet

There are two distinct differences between grieving the loss of a pet and a human being. The first is the element of unconditional love. Our pets love us regardless of our mood, availability, or our communication skills. The second is that society does not acknowledge that it is normal and healthy to grieve the loss of a companion animal. These two factors make it exceedingly difficult for a pet owner to say goodbye and cope with their heartbreak. If you ...

The Loss of Your Animal Family Member

It is not unusual to think of your pony, dog, cat, bird, hamster, or ferret as a member of your family. Children in particular have special bonds to their animal friends who love and protect them. When your animal family member is facing death or has died, the ramifications are far-reaching and varied according to each individual’s place in the family. Everyone’s relationship with the pet is different, and thus each ...

Choices for Your Pet’s Body after Death

The death of one’s pet is sad and stressful. Peace of mind may come with knowing exactly what will become of your pet’s remains and making the choice that is right for you.
1. Cremation is a popular option. Cremains may be placed in an urn for you to keep or bury, or cremains can be scattered in a special section or land set aside in a pet cemetery. Before selecting an animal crematory, find out the procedures. Many animal crematories ...

When Your Pet

You don’t remember all the details of your life when you first got your pet, because that was five, 10 or 20 years ago. You or your kids were small children; you were in school or had a completely different job. You remember that there were long down-phases and up-phases in your own life since then. And you know that whether you were up or down, your pet was glad to see you, wanting food, hugs, play, and sometimes needing ...

Grief and Bereavement Counseling

Have you ever lost or known someone who has lost their beloved pet? The internet offers a link to grief and bereavement counseling, support and coping tips, as well as pet memorial options, Rainbow Bridge and cemeteries & crematories. Some of the best websites include: www.pet-loss.net, which has state-specific resources; www.aplb.org, the site of the non-profit Association for Pet Loss & Bereavement, Inc.; www.RainbowBridge.com; and www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/ccab/ petloss.html, a gateway to information on pet loss. If you are not online, several sites offer ...

Coping with the Loss of a Pet

Intense Grief Over The Loss
of a Pet is Normal and Natural.
The loss of any companion animal, large or small, young or old, anticipated or not, can cause unimaginable sorrow and pain. The need to mourn can be complicated by well-intentioned but, ill-informed friends and relatives who urge “replacement” with a new puppy or kitty, as well as, various activities to keep one from “dwelling on the loss”. Many bereft people want to know what they can do to heal their ...